JB- I can understand your feelings about trademarks, etc., and I did see the "Simonis" emblem on the bag. I guess, because I am NOT in the same type of situation as you, I don't let that kind of stuff bother me.
There are only so many designs people can make on cues or cases, cars are getting to look more and more like each other, home designs are quite similar. People are scratching to make a living, and I guess my attitude is, "Copying is the best form of flattery".
I think I paid almost $400 (installed) the last time covered my table with Simonis. I paid a hell of a lot less, this time, using this Takini cloth, and, after seriously playing for about 3 hours last evening on my table, I, (personally) don't care who made it or where it came from. It's quality stuff, and to ME, that's all that matters.
There are people that are going to buy nothing but Simonis, because "That's the stuff"!! People are only going to buy only JB Cases, because of the quality and design, and your reputation as a case maker and straight up businessman. However, there are a LOT of players out here that just plain don't have the $$ to buy one of your cases. If Joe Dokes puts out a half-ass case that looks pretty damn much like yours, and sells it for $79.95, there are a lot of people that are going to buy Joe's case over yours. It has nothing to do with what you do. Yes, in one way, it infringes on your efforts, and hard work.
All I can say is, continue to do what you do. Your work is "TOP SHELF". You've earned your spot. There are just too damn many things going on in the world today to worry about besides "infringement".
Maybe someone will be able to contact the makers of Takini and get a straight up answer about the Simonis emblem. Hell, maybe there IS an affiliation?!
Just my lowly opinion, and you know what "they" say about that!
Take care, and continue to do what you do.
